Short-term inflammation helps the body heal, but long-term, chronic inflammation can lead to hardening of the arteries. Walnuts contain anti-inflammatory alpha-linolenic omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols. In this study, 634 healthy adults added 1 to 2 ounces of raw walnuts to their standard diet per day, or didn’t add walnuts. After two years, total inflammatory factors declined 11.5 percent in the walnut group. Six of 10 well-known inflammatory factors declined significantly, including interleukin (IL) 1-beta, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and soluble E-selectin.
Doctors said walnuts have an optimal mix of essential nutrients with likely anti-inflammatory effects and other health benefits.